Trading Post Want to sell to the world? Here's where to start.

If you're like many homebased entrepreneurs with a product to sell, the Internet has opened up a world of potential customers--literally. In fact, it's probably not uncommon for businesspeople to get orders from customers in Europe, Asia and Latin America.

But these are probably random international sales. If you want to build the import or export side of your business, what resources should you tap into? Books, Web sites and other sources are available, but if you're going international for the first time, an SBA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a good place to start.

One SBDC in California is dedicated exclusively to helping small companies go global. Called the Export SBDC, the El Segundo center and its satellite offices offer entrepreneurs seminars, counseling and access to trade databases. The Export SBDC has offices in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties but also serves entrepreneurs from other states who visit the area or call (310) 606-0166. While other SBDCs around the country don't specifically target exporters, many have staff members who are knowledgeable about international trade.